You're talking about an extra $75k COA by attending SMU. It's a decision to you then - do you think living in Texas for the next 20 years is worth $75k? I voted SMU because IU-I will limit you to Indianapolis (without some really impressive networking) and one of your most salient priorities seems to be geography.

You're coming from California. I'm assuming you have no ties to Texas / Dallas. Texas firms are very, very big on ties to the region. IU will NOT give you those ties. If you want Texas, SMU is really the only one to choose. Even if you don't want to work in Dallas, SMU can carry you down to Houston or elsewhere much better than IU can.

Texas firms are very insular...they look for Texas residents, Texas schools, etc. Unless you go to a much more recognizable "name" school than IU, SMU is your best bet.